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Do Plastics Cause Autism? Here’s What the Latest Research Really Says

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AND test recently it got here to light, which caused quite a lot of media attention on the role of plastics in the development of autism.

The study looked specifically at exposure to the hard plastic ingredient bisphenol A, or BPA, in the womb and the risk of boys developing this neurodevelopmental disorder.

Importantly, the study didn’t find that plastics containing BPA had an impact on autism.

However, it does suggest that BPA may affect estrogen levels in infant and school-age boys, which can impact their risk of being diagnosed with autism.

Let’s take a more in-depth have a look at the details.

Remind me what BPA is?

BPA is a component of hard plastics which have been used for several many years. Because BPA is present in plastics used to make food and a few beverage containers, many persons are exposed to low levels of BPA on daily basis.

But worries The impact of BPA on our health has been circulating for a while, as this substance can, to a small extent, mimic the motion of the hormone estrogen in our bodies.

Even though this effect is weak, there are health concerns because we’re exposed to low levels throughout our lives. Some countries have ban on the use of BPA in baby bottlesas a precaution; Australia is voluntary withdrawal in baby bottles.

What is autism and what causes it?

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder diagnosed on the basis of difficulties with social communication and repetitive and/or restrictive behaviours.

People with autism may experience other problems, comparable to seizures, changes in motor skills (for instance, difficulty coordinating high quality movements comparable to holding a pencil or turning a key to open a door), anxiety, sensory issues, sleep problems, and bowel upset.

The severity of those symptoms varies greatly, making individuals with autism perceive on a regular basis life in a very different way.

To date, most studies have described autistic people who find themselves capable of interact thoroughly in the community, and will in reality reveal outstanding skills in some areas. However, there may be a big gap in our knowledge about the large variety of individuals with profound autism who require 24-hour care.

There is a powerful influence genetics in autism with over 1,000 genes related to it. But we do not know what causes autism normally. There are several reasons for this.

It isn’t standard practice to perform detailed gene sequencing in children with autism. Although there are some clear individual genes Although certain genes are answerable for some forms of autism, more often autism may result from a fancy interaction of many genes that may be very difficult to detect, even in large-scale studies.

Environmental aspects can even contribute to the development of autism. For example, some anticonvulsant drugs These drugs aren’t any longer prescribed to pregnant women attributable to an increased risk of their children developing neurodevelopmental disorders comparable to autism.

The latest study looks at one other possible environmental factor: BPA exposure in the womb. The research consisted of several parts, including studies in humans and mice.

What did they discover in humans?

Scientists checked out a gaggle (or cohort) 1074 Australian children; about half were boys. They found that 43 children (29 boys and 14 girls) had been diagnosed with autism between the ages of seven and 11 (average age 9).

They collected urine from 847 moms near the end of pregnancy and measured the amount of BPA. They then focused their evaluation on the samples with the highest levels of BPA.

They also measured genetic changes by analyzing blood from the umbilical cord at birth. This was to ascertain for activity of the enzyme aromatase, which is linked to estrogen levels. Babies with genetic changes that might indicate lower estrogen levels were classified as having “low aromatase activity.”

Pregnant women provided urine samples, and after delivery, blood from their umbilical cord was analyzed.
Natalia Deriabina/Shutterstock

The research team found an association between high maternal BPA levels and a greater risk of autism in boys with low aromatase activity.

In the final evaluation, the researchers found that there have been too few girls with autism diagnoses and low aromatase levels to investigate. So their conclusions were limited to boys.

What did they discover in mice?

The team also studied the effects of exposing mice to BPA in the womb.

Mice exposed to BPA in this fashion showed increased grooming behavior (purportedly indicative of repetitive behavior) and decreased social behavior (purportedly indicative of decreased social interaction).

The team also noted changes in the amygdala region of the brain following BPA treatment. This region is essential for processing social interactions.

The researchers concluded that prime levels of BPA may impair the activity of the aromatase enzyme, which in turn affects estrogen production and modifies the way neurons grow in the brains of mice.

But we ought to be cautious about the results of mouse studies for several reasons:

  • we cannot assume that mouse behavior directly translates into human behavior

  • Not all mice got BPA by the same method – some were injected under the skin, others got BPA in a sweet jelly. This could affect the level of BPA the mice actually received or the way it was metabolized

  • the every day dose administered (50 micrograms per kilogram) was above the levels people in Australia would have been exposed to concentrations much higher than those detected in the urine of the moms participating in the study.

What is the message?

Finding a link between two aspects – on this case, BPA exposure in the womb and autism – doesn’t mean that one causes the other.

But researchers are proposing a mechanism, based on a study in mice. They propose that prime levels of BPA may suppress the enzyme aromatase, altering estrogen production and modifying the way neurons grow in the brains of mice.

Have we discovered what causes autism? Based on this study alone, no. Not all the children of ladies with BPA of their urine had autism, so exposure to those plastics alone isn’t enough to cause autism. There are likely various aspects, including genetics, that contribute.

This study suggests, nonetheless, that there could also be a gene-environment interaction, and that children with certain genetic variants could also be more liable to the effects of BPA and have an increased risk of autism. But we’d like more research to make clear this.

It is essential to know that there are numerous other possible contributors to autism for which there is analogous evidence. Ultimately, we still have no idea needless to say what causes autism in most individuals.

This article was originally published on : theconversation.com
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Health and Wellness

Essence of the week: Cherry Blossom EDT L’Occitane is a fragrance inspired by spring, perfect for any season – Essence

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We all know L’Occitane almond shower oil gets a lot of love – and for good reason (I’m taking a look at you #BeautyTok).

But there is one other gem of this brand that deserves just as much attention: Cherry Blossom Eau de Toilette. Since its launch in 2007, this fragrance has remained a favorite amongst my group of friends, appreciated for its delicate and refined elegance. To be honest, I feel this is what L’Occitane is known for as a brand. And although this scent is often related to the airy freshness of spring, it is a scent that brings a touch of beauty and heat to any season.

The first spritz of Cherry Blossom EDT is soft and alluring, with a subtle hint of cherry and freesia that feels fresh without overdoing it. It’s light and uplifting, like the kind of scent you employ when you would like to feel good but not an excessive amount of (like me most days). As it settles on my skin, notes of cherry blossom and lily of the valley bloom, striking the perfect balance of femininity without feeling overly sweet or dated. There’s nothing heavy or “old school floral” about this scent – it’s fresh, modern and understated in a way that feels sophisticated.

What really makes this fragrance stand out is the base. Brazilian rosewood, amber and musk give it a soft warmth that wraps you want your favorite cashmere scarf. It’s cozy but never heavy, beautifully balancing the delicate flowers. The overall effect is a scent that feels effortlessly polished – the olfactory equivalent of “quiet luxury.”

I do know, I do know – cherry blossoms evoke spring, but that is why this scent works so well all 12 months round. In the colder months, it is a refreshing break from heavy, spicy scents. I mean, I like my ouds and cognacs, but no… Bright notes of cherry and freesia bring a breath of fresh air, while warm base notes of amber and musk give the composition a comforting, grounded feel. It’s like carrying a little bit of spring with you, even when the weather is not sunny. And given the conflicting rumors we’re hearing – at the very least on the East Coast – about how much snow will fall this season, you would possibly just should keep it in your radar.

Why I find it irresistible: While everyone gravitates towards the Almond L’Occitane collection, their EDT Cherry Blossom has turn out to be an unexpected favorite of mine that I still reach for. What I like most about it is how versatile it is. It’s lightweight enough to accommodate skilled meetings or running errands during the day, but still feels special enough for dinner dates or quiet moments at home. The way it evolves on the skin – from a fresh, floral burst to a soft, warm texture – makes it feel personal, like a fragrance created just for you. It’s not flashy or trendy, but that is what makes it timeless.

Perfect pairs: As an eau de toilette, Cherry Blossom advantages greatly from thoughtful layering that highlights its delicate character and prolongs its presence throughout the day. And because Cherry Blossom has a softer sillage, it’s perfect for on a regular basis wear. If you would like to extend its durability or make it a bit more dynamic, layering is the best solution. Start with L’Occitane Cherry Blossom Shower Oil to create a fragrant base, then follow with the Shimmering Body Milk for extra depth and hydration.

If you wish to mix and match, pair Cherry Blossom EDT with complementary fragrances. Kayali Vanilla 28 adds a cozy sweetness that blends beautifully with the floral notes, while Commodity Milk+ brings out the creamy warmth of the base. On the fun side, the marshmallow and ambrette notes of Ellis Brooklyn SWEET add a delicate, sweet touch that prolongs the persistence of the cherry blossom accord. Spray the fragrance base first, let it settle, after which top with cherry blossom for a custom scent that can last all day.

EDT Cherry Blossom by L’Occitane is a masterclass in subtle sophistication. Founder Olivier Baussan put it perfectly: “It is because cherry blossoms fly away with the first breath of spring that they are so rare and precious.” This fragrance captures ephemeral beauty in a bottle. Final Verdict: If you appreciate fragrances that whisper slightly than shout, that talk of sophistication slightly than trends, L’Occitane’s Cherry Blossom EDT is value considering. It’s the olfactory equivalent of finding the perfect light – subtle, beautiful and absolutely fascinating.

Fragrance is deeply personal, but some fragrances gain universal appeal due to their masterful composition. This is one of them.

This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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Health and Wellness

You don’t have to add sugar to your cranberry sauce this holiday season – a food scientist explains how to cook with less sweeteners

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Holidays are stuffed with tasty and filling dishes and drinks. It’s hard to resist dreams of cookies, special cakes, wealthy meats and exceptionally spicy additions.

Many of the healthy ingredients utilized in holiday dishes could be overshadowed by sugar and starch. While adding extra sugar could also be tasty, it isn’t necessarily good for your metabolism. Understanding the food and cuisine science behind what you cook means you may make a few changes to a recipe and still have a delicious dish that won’t loaded with sugar.

Especially for those who’re someone with type 1 diabetes, the vacations can come with an additional layer of stress and soaring blood glucose levels. However, this just isn’t the time to despair – it’s the vacations in spite of everything.

Cranberries are a seasonal, tasty fruit that could be tweaked in recipes to make them more Type 1 diabetic-friendly – or friendly to anyone searching for a sweet dish without the added sugar.

I’m a food scientist and sort 1 diabetes. Understanding food composition, ingredient interactions, and metabolism literally saved my life.

Type 1 diabetes has been defined

Type 1 diabetes it lasts all day, without sleep breaks, without holidays and weekends, without remission and without cure. Type 1 diabetes don’t produce insulin, a hormone essential for all times, which promote the absorption of glucose, i.e. sugar, into cells. Glucose in your cells then provides the body with energy on the molecular level.

Therefore, people with type 1 diabetes take insulin injections using an insulin pump attached to their bodies and hopefully it really works well enough to stabilize our blood sugar levels and metabolism, minimize health complications over time, and keep us alive.

Type 1 diabetics have in mind mainly type and amount of carbohydrates in food when determining how much insulin to take, but in addition they need to understand the interactions of proteins and fats in food to use it, or bolusappropriately.

Apart from insulin, type 1 diabetics don’t produce one other hormone, amylin, which slows down gastric motility. This means food moves faster through our digestive tract and we regularly feel very hungry. Foods high in fat, protein and fiber can keep you from feeling hungry for a while.

Cranberries, a seasonal snack

Cranberries are native to North America and grow well within the northeastern and midwestern states, where they’re in season from late September through December. They dominate holiday tables everywhere in the country.

Cranberries are a classic Thanksgiving side dish, but cranberry sauce tends to be high in sugar.
bhofack2/iStock via Getty Images

One cup of whole, raw cranberries comprises 190 calories. They are composed of 87% water, trace amounts of protein and fat, 12 grams of carbohydrates and just over 4 grams of soluble fiber. Soluble fiber combines well with water, which is sweet for digestive health and might slow the rise in blood glucose levels.

Cranberries are tall IN potassiumwhich helps maintain electrolyte balance and cell signaling, in addition to other essential nutrients similar to antioxidants, beta-carotene AND vitamin C. They also contain vitamin Kwhich helps in healthy blood clotting.

The taste and aroma of cranberries comes from compounds present in fruits similar to cinnamates, which add a hint of cinnamon, vanillin for a vanilla note, benzoates AND Benzaldehydethat tastes like almonds.

Cranberries are high in pectin, a soluble starch that forms a gel and is used as a binding agent in making jams and jellies, in order that they thicken easily with minimal cooking. Their beautiful jewel tone red color belongs to a class of compounds called anthocyanins and proanthocyanidins with which they’re associated treating certain forms of infections.

They also contain phenols, that are protective compounds produced by the plant. These compounds, which appear like rings on the molecular level, interact with proteins within the saliva, causing a dry and tight feeling that causes the mouth to pucker. Similarly, the so-called benzoic acid naturally occurring in cranberries, it adds sourness to the fruit.

These chemical components make them extremely sour and bitter and difficult to eat raw. To moderate these flavors and effects, most cranberry recipes call for plenty of sugar.

All this extra sugar could make cranberry dishes difficult for type 1 diabetics to devour since the sugars cause blood glucose levels to rise quickly.

Cranberries without sugar?

Type 1 diabetics – or anyone looking to limit their sugar intake – can try some cooking tactics to reduce their sugar intake while still having fun with this holiday treat.

Don’t cook the cranberries too long once they pop. You’ll still have a sticky cranberry liquid without having to add a lot of sugar, because cooking concentrates a number of the bitter compounds, making them more visible within the dish.

A row of spoons, each filled with a pile of powdered spice.
Adding spices to cranberries can improve the flavour of the dish without the added sugar.
klenova/iStock via Getty Images

The addition of cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, nutmeg and other warming spices gives the dish a depth of flavor. Adding heat with hot chili pepper it might make a cranberry dish more complex while reducing sourness and astringency. Adding salt can reduce the bitterness of cranberries, so you will not need a lot of sugar.

For a richer flavor and glossy quality, add butter. The butter also moisturizes the lips, which reinforces the natural tartness of the dish. Other fats, similar to cream or coconut oil, also work.

Adding chopped walnuts, almonds or hazelnuts may decelerate the absorption of glucose, so your blood glucose levels may not rise as quickly. Some recent forms of sweeteners, similar to allulosethey taste sweet but don’t raise blood sugar levels and require minimal or no insulin. Allulose has GRAS – Generally Regarded as Safe – status within the US but just isn’t approved as an additive in Europe.

During the holiday season, you may easily reduce the quantity of sugar added to cranberry dishes and revel in the health advantages without spikes in blood glucose levels.

This article was originally published on : theconversation.com
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Health and Wellness

Willow Smith’s debut collection with Moncler is now available – Essence

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Moncler

Willow Smith’s debut collection with Moncler has been launched. The capsule is a mixture of the inside of a musician, actress, writer and creator. In it, a futuristic and unbelievable world is explored through clothes. Smith’s personal style was also showcased. The lineup was originally revealed in Shanghai.

Willow Smith's debut collection with Moncler is now available
Moncler

“Minimalism and utilitarianism. Femininity and masculinity. Black and white. “Putting ideas together in an elegant way is something that really excites me and I wanted to explore that with this collection,” Willow shared.

“Willow’s magnetic energy is captured in a series of images exploring the primary themes of the collection: clashing contrasts, rebirth and renewal, yin and yang, recent beginnings – inspired by Moncler’s mountain origins and love of nature. “Willow’s creativity influences every aspect of the videos and photos accompanying the collection: she not only drives the concept, but also models her designs, narrates the short film and provides the soundtrack,” the brand said in a press release. The launch is accompanied by black and white campaign photos – the dramatization of those photos ushers in an exciting era for Smith.

Willow Smith's debut collection with Moncler is now available
Moncler

The collection is dominated by knitwear perfect for layering, a down jacket and heavy sweatshirts created in shrunken proportions. The capsule is accomplished with extensive outerwear options and a brief-sleeved T-shirt with silver eyelet. The T-shirt is also available in an extended-sleeved version. The collection includes cream and black shades. The down vest with a hood and a brief cut stands out.

Salix leather boots are characterised by an interesting design. In addition to nodding to punk influences, this footwear option is designed with a Moncler logo on the toe, elastic panels on the front and a rubber sole.

Willow Smith's debut collection with Moncler is now available
Moncler

“I am incredibly passionate about the outdoors and exploring this wonderful land. I imagine these pieces can easily transition from overnight camping to fashionable evening wear,” Willow added, emphasizing the natural duality of the collection.

Moncler X Willow Smith is currently available in chosen Moncler stores and more moncler.com .

This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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